If you've ever visited Berlin, you likely recognize "Unter den Linden" as the famous street in Berlin that runs from Brandenburg Gate east through Mitte, crossing the River Spree at the Berlin Cathedral. It's one of the most iconic and historically meaningful streets in all of Europe.

"Unter den Linden" - meaning, "under the linden (or lime) trees" also has deep meaning for Bavarians, because linden trees have traditionally provided shade for beer gardens across Southern Germany, since the first beer gardens were set up in the early 19th century. This is one of the things that make beer gardens special - traditionally, tables should be set up in a natural environment, beneath trees (most commonly, linden or chestnut trees), rather than utilizing the shade of umbrellas or other terrace-type structures.

For me, linden trees are representative of my life in Germany. They are a reminder to slow down, relax, and enjoy life's small moments - a lazy afternoon in the shade of a linden tree, in the company of good friends, with a beautiful picnic laid out on the table before us and a cold beer in hand, is my idea of perfection.